How about a journey to Yongsan-gu a district brimming with stories? Yongsan-gu is one of Seoul’s 25 districts. It sits on the northern bank of the Han River. Yongsan’s name translates to Dragon Mountain.
Let’s step back in time. The earliest mention of Yongsan is from the Baekje Dynasty. A fable tells of two dragons appearing over the Han River. Some say the name Dragon Mountain comes from the area’s dragon-shaped mountains.
During the Joseon period Yongsan became Seoul’s gateway for seaborne travelers. It was a bustling hub for commerce. Yongsan is considered Korea’s first example of capitalism. It grew into Korea’s first satellite city.
In 1884 Yongsan became an open district. French Chinese and Japanese missionaries settled here. They started missionary work in 1887. Yongsan-gu was officially established in 1896. It became Yongsan District of Seoul in 1946.
Yongsan has been known as Seoul’s most multicultural district since the late 19th century. This is partly due to the Yongsan Garrison. The Seoul Central Mosque also contributes to the district’s diverse culture.
Since the 19th century Yongsan has housed military installations. First the Chinese then the Japanese used it as their headquarters. After World War II the US Army established Yongsan Garrison. Much of the US personnel have moved to Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek as of 2021. A small part of the garrison will remain to keep the Dragon Hill Lodge open.
The Yongsan Garrison influenced Seoul life greatly. The nearby Itaewon area developed to serve US personnel. US personnel currency and supplies helped Seoul after the Korean War.
The withdrawal of US personnel will create a large park. The plan is to create an ecological park of some 3.03 million sq. meters. In January 2021 the Seoul Metropolitan Government announced that the area would be called Yongsan Park.
Yongsan’s economy is diverse. The area around Seoul Station and Yongsan Station is full of corporations. Amore Pacific Orion Confectionery and HYBE Corporation are based here. AmorePacific even opened its global headquarters next to Shinyongsan Station in 2017.
The Itaewon area was designated a special tourist zone in 1997. It is popular with US military personnel Koreans and foreign tourists. Itaewon has about 2000 shops many bars clubs restaurants and cafes. The Itaewon Global Village Festival takes place every October.
Yongsan is home to Sookmyung Women’s University. It was founded in 1906. It is one of the top women’s universities in South Korea.
Yongsan boasts many attractions. These include the National Museum of Korea and the War Memorial of Korea. Don’t miss the Leeum Samsung Museum of Art.
Yongsan is a district of constant change. It blends history culture and modernity. Its story continues to evolve.